Caretta Shiodome’s Winter Illumination

If you’re here in Tokyo during the winter season, you must not miss out on the amazing illuminations on display. The Winter Illuminations in Tokyo are a significant event, as shopping complexes and corporations put up stunning displays of LED lights just as the city gets into the Christmas mood.

The Caretta Illumination at Shiodome is by far one of the most amazing displays this year. Going by the theme of “Canyon d’Azur”, the area in front of Caretta Shiodome (a shopping complex with a range of cafes, restaurants, and shops) beautifully lights up in a sea of blue during this year-end season. Well-received from last year’s audience, this Illumination is back by popular demand.

The illumination comprises of approximately 250 000 LED lights, providing an impressive display of a sea of lights. The shimmering blue lights could be seen from afar, and the first sight of the illumination in its entirety was simply breath-taking. Music accompanies the light-up as people go near the lighted up trees to take tons of photos. Light shows happen at every 20 minute interval starting from 5pm. In these light shows, the Illumination changes colour to the tune and beat of the music being played, and you see the Illumination changing from its usual blue to an array of white, pink, purple, red. The entire performance was extremely beautiful and captivating. A special Cinderella themed light show also takes place at 6pm, 7pm, 8pm, and 9pm.

Apart from watching the lightshow, you can head up to the 46th floor of the Caretta Shiodome building to get an excellent view of Tokyo. Going up the elevator at high speed, seeing Tokyo’s night scene zoom past was an experience in itself. On the 46th floor was a small indoor observatory, offering a beautiful view of Tokyo, all at no cost! For those who are looking for a nice meal while appreciating this view, Caretta Shiodome’s Sky Restaurants also offer fine dining with seats that overlook the Odaiba and Ginza districts. More details can be found on its website.

The Caretta Illumination started on 19th November 2015 and will last till next year’s Valentine’s Day 14th February 2016. The site lights up from 5pm to 11pm till 31st December 2015, and will light up from 6pm to 11pm from 3rd January 2016 till 14th February 2016. Do note that there will be no light-up on New Year’s Day and 2nd January 2016. Crowds are expected to surge near Christmas, hence do go there in the earlier half of December if you wish to avoid the crowds.

To get here, simply alight at Shiodome Station (accessible by Oedo Line) and take a 1-minute walk to Caretta Shiodome. The area is also accessible by a 5-minute walk from Shimbashi Station (accessible by Ginza Line and Asakusa Line).